Is Porec in Istria worth visiting?

Poreč in Croatia is a fantastic destination for family-friendly holidays, offering a wide range of activities, beautiful beaches, and a safe, welcoming environment.

In terms of overnight stays in commercial accommodation, Porec is often in the top 5 destinations in Croatia.

Italians, Germans, and Austrians are the dominant group of tourists during high season.

More than 3% of the population in Porec declares themselves Italian, and the Italian language is spoken by 20% of the local population.

Is it true that Porec is one of the best cities to live in Croatia? Yes, Poreč is often regarded as one of the best cities to live in Croatia, thanks to its high quality of life.

What about the names of the city in use?

• Parentium – the ancient Latin name given during the Roman period.

• Parenzo – the Italian name, still used by Italian speakers, reflecting the area's historical ties to Italy.

• Poreč – the Croatian name, used today as the official name of the city in modern Croatia.

From the past

The Illyrians were the first to live in the area back in the Late Bronze Age. Livy wrote about it during Roman fights with the Histri around 178-177 B.C.

In the 2nd century B.C., the Romans built a fort here, which eventually turned into a Roman town. It got the status of a municipium (a Roman municipality) from Octavian and became known as “Colonia Iulia Parentium under Tiberius”.

Back in 1261, the “Comune di Parenzo”, which was basically the local government for the community, officially asked Venice for protection, and that kickstarted a relationship that lasted until 1797. After the Venetian Republic, Porec came under Austro-Hungarian Monarchy rule, and after that under France.

In 1945, Porec and the rest of Istria became part of Yugoslavia. Then in 1990, Croatia came into the picture.

How far is Poreč from Rovinj?

If planning to explore nearby towns, Rovinj is a must-see destination, and fortunately, just a short trip from Poreč.

Located about 35 kilometers (22 miles) south of Poreč, Rovinj is easily accessible by car or bus, with a travel time of approximately 40 - 45 minutes.

For travelers without a car, regular bus services connect the two towns, making it easy to enjoy the charm of Rovinj’s colorful waterfront, old town alleys, and seaside promenades.

Ironman Event in Poreč

Each year, Poreč plays host to a significant sporting event: the Ironman 70.3 Poreč. Part of the globally recognized Ironman series, this race attracts athletes from across the globe to test their endurance along Poreč’s stunning landscapes.

The Ironman 70.3 course includes 1.9 kilometers of swimming, 90 kilometers of cycling, and a half marathon running (21.1 kilometers), creating a thrilling challenge amid the scenic beauty of Istria.

Spectators can enjoy the excitement from various viewpoints, with the final stretch often concluding near the city center, where supporters gather to cheer on the athletes.

If you’re visiting during the Ironman event, it’s an exhilarating way to witness world-class sportsmanship against a beautiful coastal backdrop.

The next Ironman competition in Poreč will be held on 19 October 2025.

For additional information, visit: the official Ironman website

Handball Championship

Croatia is known for its passion for handball, and Poreč has hosted its share of handball championships over the years. Croatian handball teams are recognized internationally, and local matches are filled with intense energy and enthusiastic fans.

The World Handball Championship is going down from January 14 to February 2, 2025, in Croatia, Denmark, and Norway. In Croatia, Poreč will be one of the host cities, along with Zagreb and Varaždin.

Poreč’s sports venues occasionally host national and international handball events, offering visitors the chance to experience Croatia’s sports culture firsthand. For handball fans, attending a match in Poreč is a unique way to add a dash of local flavor to the trip.

If you are interested in this sport, visit our blog on Handball World Championship 2025 in Poreč for more information.

What else to do while in Porec?

Here are some top things to do while in Poreč:

Aquacolors Poreč

One of Croatia’s largest and most popular waterparks, known for its vibrant colors, thrilling slides, and relaxing lazy river.

It’s perfect for a family day out, with areas designed for all ages, from high-speed slides for thrill-seekers to wave pools and splash zones for younger children.

Aquacolors is a great way to cool off and have fun under the Istrian sun.

Dinopark Funtana

Dinopark Funtana, just a short drive from Poreč, is a dinosaur-themed amusement park that’s ideal for kids and dinosaur enthusiasts.

The park has life-sized dinosaur models, small amusement rides, live performances, and even a small petting zoo. It's an educational and entertaining place for the entire family, giving visitors a peek into the prehistoric world with a mix of fun and hands-on activities.

Baredine Cave

The Baredine Cave is a pit cave, and a fascinating natural attraction a few kilometers from Poreč. This karst cave system takes visitors on an underground journey through stunning stalactites, stalagmites, and unique rock formations.

A guided tour reveals interesting geological history and leads you 60 meters below ground, where you might even spot the unique cave olm, a rare aquatic creature found in Croatian caves.

Parenzana Trail

The Parenzana Trail is a former railway line turned into a scenic route perfect for walking, biking or hiking. The 123-kilometer trail stretches across the Istrian peninsula, connecting Poreč with other historic towns.

The trail takes you through vineyards, olive groves, and forested areas, offering stunning views and a peaceful escape into nature. It’s a great way to experience the Istrian landscape and enjoy an active day outdoors.

Decumanus Street

Decumanus Street is the main pedestrian avenue in Poreč’s Old Town and has been the heart of the city since Roman times. Lined with charming shops, cafes, and historical buildings, it’s the perfect spot for a stroll and soaking up the local ambiance.

Highlights include the Euphrasian Basilica with its beautiful mosaics, along with medieval towers, ancient ruins, and vibrant street life that tell the story of Poreč’s rich history and cultural heritage.

Ferry from Porec to Venice

For travelers seeking to expand their adventures, a ferry trip from Poreč, Croatia to Venice, Italy is an unforgettable experience.

The ferry service, typically available during spring and summer months, offers a scenic and convenient journey from Croatia’s coast to one of Italy’s most iconic cities.

The ferry takes around 2.5 to 3 hours one-way, making it feasible for a day trip. On board, you can enjoy views of the Adriatic Sea before arriving in Venice’s bustling San Basilio port.

Once there, you’ll have time to explore Venice’s charming canals, historic landmarks, and Italian cuisine. The return ferry to Poreč in the evening provides a picturesque close to a memorable day.

Poreč apartments for rent

Poreč offers a wide selection of apartments for rent, catering to various travel needs and budgets. For travelers seeking longer stays, local apartment rentals provide flexibility and convenience.

Apartments are available throughout Poreč, including near the Old Town, beachside areas, and quieter neighborhoods. Many options come with amenities like sea views, kitchens, and proximity to cafes and restaurants.

For travlers searching for more amenities such as pool, Eurotours has listings of luxury villas with pools for rent in Porec.

Why choose Poreč for your next vacation?

Poreč brings together the best of Croatia’s coastline, rich history, and modern attractions, making it a top choice for travelers.

Whether exploring Roman ruins, enjoying an Ironman event, or taking a ferry to Venice, Poreč promises an unforgettable experience.